Fitchburg State’s academic success a story worth spreading
We’ve previously mentioned that an educated workforce ranked among the top economic-development selling points for North Central Mass., as it seeks to position itself as a lower-cost alternative to higher-priced parts of the state.
And recent national studies praising the value of a Fitchburg State University education reinforces that point. According to the latest U. S. News & World Report findings, Fitchburg State University graduates experience strong social mobility and get high returns on their educational investment. Due to its emphasis on serving disadvantaged students, FSU was named a top performer on social mobility in the magazine’s Best Colleges 2020 rankings, which placed it as the highest-rated public institution in Massachusetts relative to social mobility.
It’s been proven that economically disadvantaged students are less likely than others to finish college. The lack of family resources — and lack of access to financial-assistance information — often prevent low-income individuals from furthering their education. But some colleges — including FSU — have demonstrated more success than others at advancing social mobility by enrolling and graduating large proportions of disadvantaged students awarded with Pell Grants, the majority of which go to students whose adjusted gross family incomes are under $50,000.
That’s also the conclusion of a recent report by the College Board. “Education Pays 2019: The Benefits of Higher Education for Individuals and Society” found that college education increases the chance that adults will move up the socioeconomic ladder, and reduces the chance they will rely on public assistance.
That’s why it’s crucial that FSU provides the education opportunity for high-school grads who otherwise might not pursue a four-year degree. And that bachelor’s degree makes a significant difference to the bottom line over the course of a working career. The College Board analysis indicates individuals with bachelor’s degrees will earn $400,000 more over the course of their lifetimes
“FSU graduates experience strong social mobility and get high returns on their educational investment.”
than those with just high-school diplomas. That’s how those with less socioeconomic advantages move up that ladder, which increases the likelihood of a financially independent existence. We realize that the cost of higher education constitutes a huge commitment — or barrier — to individuals of limited means. But another study, created by Georgetown University’s Center on Education and the Workforce, showed a strong return on investment for Fitchburg State University graduates, who pay in-state tuition and fees of $10,410 and $16,490 in out-of-state tuition and fees.
That study looked at federal data to estimate the “net present value” of a college education over time, and found FSU scored higher than most other public institutions in Massachusetts. In response to these kudos,
FSU Provost/Vice President for Academic Affairs Alberto J. F. Cardelle said the analyses reflect the university’s commitment to quality preprofessional programs that are built upon solid liberal arts foundations.
These unsolicited words of praise prove this university lives up to its mission statement: A Fitchburg State University education does extend beyond its classrooms to include residential, professional, and co-curricular opportunities. And as a community resource, it provides leadership and support for the economic, environmental, social, and cultural needs of North Central Massachusetts and the commonwealth. We congratulate
FSU President Richard S. Lapidus and his leadership team for providing the type of education that graduates the type of talent that businesses looking to relocate or expand need. That’s the human capital that North-Central Massachusetts can offer.